If we're being honest, most of us take our power points for granted. They're just... there. Sitting on the wall, quietly doing their job. That is, until one suddenly sparks, smells a bit off, or flat-out stops working. Then it's panic stations.
But here’s the thing: faulty or outdated power points aren’t just inconvenient—they can be dangerous. We’re talking fire hazards, electric shocks, and potential damage to your appliances. The good news? A licensed electrician can spot the warning signs before things get risky.
So if you’re not sure whether your power points are still up to scratch, here’s what the pros are looking out for—and why it might be time to get them checked.
Most issues with power points don’t pop up overnight. There are usually warning signs—and they’re not hard to spot if you know what to look for.
Here are a few red flags:
Cracked or discoloured faceplates
Got a power point that looks brown or burnt around the edges? That’s not just age—it could mean overheating or arcing behind the scenes.
Loose plugs or wobbly sockets
If your charger falls out with the slightest knock, that’s a sign the internal contacts are worn or damaged. It’s also a potential shock hazard.
Buzzing, sizzling or sparking
Electricity should be silent. If you hear strange noises when plugging something in—or worse, see sparks—call an electrician. ASAP.
Warm or hot to the touch
Power points should never heat up under normal use. If they do, something’s wrong inside.
Only one outlet works
Dual power point but only one side actually powers your device? Time to get it looked at. It might be a sign of internal wiring issues.
If any of this sounds familiar, don’t shrug it off. These might seem like small issues, but left unchecked, they can escalate quickly.
Even if everything seems fine on the outside, a licensed sparkie can check what’s going on behind the scenes. Here’s what they’ll typically do during an inspection:
Test for proper voltage and earthing
They’ll use specialised tools to make sure your power points are delivering the correct voltage and are safely grounded.
Check for overloading
Especially in older homes, it’s not uncommon to see one or two points doing all the heavy lifting. This can overheat wires and pose serious risks.
Inspect internal connections
Loose wires inside a power point are an invisible danger. An electrician can safely open up the point to see what’s going on.
Evaluate overall circuit safety
Power point problems often point to bigger issues, like old wiring or an outdated switchboard. A quick safety check can highlight what needs upgrading.
Australia has a lot of beautiful older homes, but with age comes outdated electrical systems. If your home still has the original switchboard, old single power points, or hasn’t had an electrical inspection in years, it’s time to get a professional in.
The general recommendation? Get a full electrical safety check every 5 to 10 years—or more often if you’re noticing problems.
Also, if you’re renovating, buying or selling a property, or have recently added a lot of new appliances, it’s worth having your power points and wiring assessed.
While they’re at it, your electrician might suggest a few smart upgrades:
Install safety switches (RCDs)
These are life-saving devices that cut the power instantly if there’s a fault. They’re required in newer homes, but older properties may still be missing them.
Upgrade to double power points with USB ports
Handy, modern, and just more practical for today’s tech-heavy households.
Weatherproof outdoor power points
For the BBQ area, pool, or shed, these are essential for both convenience and safety.
Child safety covers or tamper-proof outlets
A great option for families with curious little ones.
It’s tempting to poke around or try to fix things yourself, especially if you’re handy. But here’s the reality: in Australia, it’s illegal to do your own electrical work if you’re not licensed. More importantly, it’s dangerous.
Hiring a qualified electrician not only keeps your home safe—it ensures the job’s done properly and meets all safety regulations.
If your home’s electrical setup is feeling a bit dodgy, don’t wait for something to go wrong. Booking a qualified tradie through ServiceSeeking.com.au is easy, fast, and lets you compare quotes in minutes.
Whether you’re dealing with dodgy power points, planning a renovation, or just want peace of mind, there’s a local electrician ready to help—without the runaround.
So take a look around your home. Are your power points safe? If you’re not sure, it’s time to find someone who is.